Chrysler decision shows need for auto strategy: Unifor

TORONTO, March 4, 2014 /CNW/ - The decision by Chrysler to withdraw its request for financial assistance from the federal and provincial governments as part of its proposals to invest in its assembly plants in Brampton and Windsor is regrettable, Unifor National President Jerry Dias says.

"The bottom line is that the people of Ontario and our leaders need to understand the importance of developing a long-term strategy, including public investment, if we want to have a strong, competitive advanced manufacturing sector," said Jerry Dias, National President of Unifor.

Dias said Unifor looks forward to meeting with the company about the future of its plants in Windsor and Brampton.

"We're pleased that Chrysler has said it will invest in Windsor, and look forward to working with the company and the government to ensure the continued success of our auto manufacturing in that community," Dias said.

"We are deeply concerned, however, that in the long-term we are going to lose an incredible opportunity to secure Ontario's manufacturing industry well into the future," Dias said.

"The need for provincial leadership and vision has never been clearer if we are going to build and maintain a strong economy in this province," stressed Dias.

"Unifor is eager to continue our work to ensure the long-term success of our advanced auto manufacturing and will work with all players to achieve that goal," Dias said.

"That is what our members need. That is what this province needs."

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, with more than 300,000 members, including more than 39,000 in the auto industry.

SOURCE: Unifor

Unifor Communications Director Sarah Blackstock at [email protected] or (cell) 416-949-1072, or Unifor Communications National Representative Stuart Laidlaw at [email protected] or (cell) 647-385-4054